A prominent researcher in the field of ending violence against women and girls has been honoured with a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE). Dr Susan Lagdon, an academic at Ulster University, was recognized for her outstanding contributions to advancing the understanding and prevention of gender-based violence in Northern Ireland.
The recognition comes amid alarming statistics, with 31,558 domestic abuse incidents reported to police in Northern Ireland in the year ending March 31, 2026—a 6.1% increase from the previous year. During the same period, seven women lost their lives in domestic homicides.
Dr Lagdon's work, particularly her expertise in coercive control, has been instrumental in transforming regional responses, shaping policy, and raising public awareness about gender-based violence. Her report, "Every Voice Matters: Violence Against Women in Northern Ireland," commissioned by The Executive Office, captures the experiences of over 540 women to examine the prevalence and impact of underreporting.
Building on this research, she developed the "Head, Shoulders, Knees and Toes" (HSKT) Coercive Control public awareness campaign, created with colleagues from the university and The Executive Office. The campaign includes in-person training and a toolkit for professionals, strengthening public understanding of coercive control and enhancing the capacity of organizations to respond effectively.
Dr Lagdon expressed her gratitude, stating, "It is a tremendous honour to receive this recognition and to see the work acknowledged in such a meaningful way. Violence against women and girls remains one of the most pressing challenges facing our society, impacting individuals, families, and wider communities. The progress we have made has only been possible through the dedication of so many people."
Professor Paul Bartholomew, vice-chancellor of Ulster University, praised the award as "richly deserved," adding that Dr Lagdon's pioneering research and commitment to tackling gender-based violence have made a real and lasting difference across Northern Ireland. "Through her work she is ensuring that evidence informs action, and she is giving a voice to those who need support in order to live safe and fulfilling lives," he said.
